This specification covers test methods and performance requirements for loose-fill rubber playground-surfacing products and is intended to complement existing ASTM International standards for determining the shock attenuation and accessibility of a playground surface. The objective of this specification is to assist playground designers and specifiers, owner/operators, and playground-surfacing suppliers in evaluating loose-fill rubber products for playground use. The test methods and performance requirements cover particle size distribution, extractable hazardous metal content, total lead content, tramp metal content, and sharp tramp metal content. It does not address the accessibility of loose-fill rubber playground surfacing, or the release of organic chemicals from loose-fill rubber intended to be used as a playground surface. Included are tables that designate a sample of loose-fill rubber in the form of nuggets; a sample of loose-fill rubber in form of buffings tested; maximum allowable soluble concentration in mg/L; and analytical correction for antimony, arsenic, barium, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, and selenium.

1.1 This specification establishes test methods and performance requirements for particle size distribution, extractable hazardous metal content, total lead content, tramp metal content, and sharp tramp metal content for loose-fill rubber that is intended to be used as a playground surface.

1.2 This specification does not contain test methods or performance requirements for the accessibility of loose-fill rubber playground surfacing. The specification also does not establish test methods or performance requirements to characterize the release of organic chemicals from loose-fill rubber intended to be used as a playground surface. Appendix X1 and Appendix X2 contain additional information on these topics.

1.3 If loose-fill rubber which meets the requirements of this standard is to be installed in the use zone of playground equipment, it must also comply with Specification F1292.

1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.